Lesson 4: The Bully Pulpit and the State of the Union Address
Duration of Days: 2
Lesson Objective
Students will analyze the purpose and constitutional foundation of the State of the Union Address and evaluate its effectiveness as a tool for advancing a president’s policy agenda.
How effective is the State of the Union Address in shaping a president’s policy agenda and influencing Congress?
CG.Inq.4.c. Critique political arguments and explanations while acknowledging the strengths and
weaknesses given the purpose and audience (credibility, bias, reasoning, sequencing,
details).
CG.Inq.4.d. Present arguments and explanations that feature evocative ideas and multiple
perspectives about political issues and topics to reach a range of audiences and venues
outside the classroom using print, oral, and digital technologies.
DOK level 3
Analyze the constitutional role of the State of the Union (Article II of the United States Constitution).
Interpret presidential rhetoric and policy proposals.
Evaluate effectiveness in influencing Congress and public opinion.
Support a claim with evidence from historical examples or current events.
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worksheet completion as well as class discussion.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uyzpHbCLiV4a79cmYzVoMDg4sihdcP8uQuVlTPS56Ew/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.pz76t1besghp